How to Wire a Cord for a Generator

Application: Wiring a Generator Cord.
Skill Level: Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required: Electricians pouch of hand tools.
Estimated Time: Depends on the type and size of the generator output, the specific receptacle, and the available access to the project area.
Note: Generator power should always be wired through an approved transfer switch or circuit interlock device. Any part of the home electrical system must NEVER be back-fed using a cheater cord. Back-feeding is extremely hazardous for the home, the occupants and the electric utility company repairmen.
Important: Installing a generator and transfer switch must be well thought out and performed with a permit with all work being inspected.

Wiring a Generator Cord

Generator power which will be used for multiple circuits should first connect to an electrical distribution panel.

A “Y” adapter should not be connected to a generator.

If the generator has a 3-wire receptacle which states that it is 240 volts then a separate neutral is not present, therefore a 120 volt circuit is not available.

You can only obtain 120 volts from the receptacle which states that it is 120 volts.

Connecting a 3-Wire and 4-Wire Cord to a Generator

If the receptacle on the generator is a 3-wire type then a 3-wire cord and male connector body should be used.

If the generator receptacle is a 4-wire type then a 4-wire cord and male connector body should be used.

Generator Cord and Connector Amperage Ratings

Generator Receptacle Outlet Examples:

A NEMA 20R receptacle indicates a 20 amp receptacle.

A NEMA 30R receptacle indicates a 30 amp receptacle.

Home Generator Cords

The connecting cord to the generator should be connected to a transfer switch, generator circuit panel, or an approved interlock device which is properly sized which will ensure that only one source of power is connected and ON at any given time.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!

The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets
UL Listed
Light indicates if wiring is incorrect
Very handy and easy to use.

Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!

The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter
My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets..

The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.